This content relates to a former minister

Delivering a third linear accelerator to boost cancer treatments for the Central Coast

The Liberal National Government is expanding the cancer treatment capacity at the Central Coast Cancer Centre with a $3.8 million investment for a new linear accelerator (LINAC).

The Hon Greg Hunt MP
Former Minister for Health and Aged Care

Media event date:
Date published:
Media type:
Media release
Audience:
General public

The Liberal National Government is expanding the cancer treatment capacity at the Central Coast Cancer Centre with a $3.8 million investment for a new linear accelerator (LINAC).

LINAC machines are vital pieces of technology in the treatment of cancer as they allow doctors to target cancer cells while protecting the surrounding healthy tissue.

Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the Liberal National Government continues to deliver record investment in additional health services for patients and families in NSW.

“Our Government is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring all Australians have access to the critical health services that we all rely on,” Minister Hunt said.

“This latest announcement will help save lives and improve patient care.”

The Central Coast Cancer Centre was jointly funded by the Federal and NSW State Governments at a cost of $39 million.

Before it opened in 2013, cancer patients either paid for radiotherapy treatment at private facilities or travelled long distances to Sydney or Newcastle for public services.

Federal Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks said she was thrilled to be part of a Coalition Government that was determined to provide vital health services for the people of the Central Coast, especially for those who were fighting cancer.

“Since the centre opened, the number of radiotherapy courses provided by the two existing linear accelerator machines has more than doubled by 2018,” Ms Wicks said.

“This was the first cancer centre on the Central Coast to offer public radiotherapy services when it opened six years ago and, sadly, the demand for those services is continuing to grow.”

“Following a number of discussions with the Central Coast Local Health District and clinical staff based at the cancer centre, it became clear an additional machine would be needed to cope with that demand.”

“I was pleased to be able to work with the staff to advocate for a third machine and I am delighted to see that we succeeded in getting that vital funding.

“Without this additional machine, patients may have been required to go on a waiting list, and that was something none of us wanted.”

“It will also ease the pressures on staff who work long hours to ensure no patients miss out,” Ms Wicks said.

The Liberal National Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued investment of record funding into vital health initiatives including drug and alcohol treatment, mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.

Tags: 

Help us improve health.gov.au

If you would like a response please use the enquiries form instead.